In dentistry, digital radiology techniques, such as a charge-coupled device and a storage phosphor plate, are gaining popularity. It was the objective of this study to assess the importance of the advantages and disadvantages of digital radiology techniques for bitewing radiography in young children, when compared to conventional film. A group of dentists received a questionnaire regarding their experiences with digital radiology techniques or conventional films among young children. Using the Simple Multi-Attributive Rating Technique (SMART) a final weighted score was calculated for the charge-coupled device, the phosphor plate en conventional film. The scores were 7.40, 7.38, and 6.98 respectively. The differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.47). It could be concluded that, on the basis of experiences in practice, there are no statistically significant preferences for the use of digital radiology techniques for bitewing radiography in young children.

Aim of this study is the evaluation of a 3-weeks course on dental implants presented in a computer assisted learning program. Evaluation variables are study result, student satisfaction and the use of the program. Fourth grade dental students were divided in a group who received traditional education and a group who received the course by means of an interactive computerprogram. At the end of the experiment there is no difference in study result between the two groups. Students say that the computer assisted learning program is a useful tool in studying the course, but use the program more as a device to obtain information than as a tool to have interactive discussion.

In the past many in vitro studies were presented on the efficiency of the apical closure of the root canal. Such studies are relatively easy to perform in contrast to clinical studies. In order to determine which type of apical seal will give the best result, many techniques are evaluated. These results from in vitro studies are difficult to apply to the clinical situation. The results of clinical studies on root canal treatments are not always in accordance with the findings of in vitro studies. It remains a challenge to design a research protocol with an improved predictive value for the clinical situation

In Central and Eastern Europe the morbidity and mortality rates as a result of tobacco use are high. Based on the premise that the health professional can play an important role in dealing with this epidemic of tobacco use, a series of workshops was organized in 2000 and 2001 for dentists and physicians. This article contains a summary of the proceedings of the workshop ´The role of the health professional and health school curriculum in tobacco control´, that have been earlier published in the European Journal of Dental Education. The role of the Dutch dentist in assisting their patients to quit smoking is discussed.

Two sisters exhibit a similar enamel disorder. It is a hereditary developmental disorder, diagnosed as amelogenesis imperfecta. In this article the various types of amelogenesis imperfecta are discussed and the clinical consequences, genetic aspects, and basic guidelines for treatment are addressed.

Scientific research in dentistry is producing new insights in dental practice. Some of these new insights result in new treatments. The general practitioner who wants to cope with these new insights, has to take continuing education. Information about the postgraduate courses of the dental schools in the Netherlands are not only presented in brochures but nowadays on the internet as well.